The Federal BEAD program and its impact on cell towers

Cell Site Insights - Episode 6 Show Notes:

Episode Title: Decoding the BEAD Program: What Cell Tower Landlords Need to Know

Introduction: Welcome to Cell Site Insights, the podcast for cell site landlords! In this episode, we dive into the Federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program and its potential impact on cell tower leases, particularly for property owners in rural America. We discuss the program's goals, funding, recent policy shifts towards technological neutrality, and provide actionable advice for landlords navigating this evolving landscape. This episode is brought to you by Cell Site Appraiser (CSA), a leading wireless consulting firm dedicated to maximizing cell site lease value for landlords.

The Federal BEAD Program:

• Established through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in November 2021

• Provides $42.45 billion to expand high-speed internet access nationwide

• Administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) through a multi-phase process3 .

• Initially prioritized fiber connectivity, but has shifted towards a "tech-neutral" approach potentially favoring fixed wireless and satellite in some areas.

• Aims to connect "unserved" (less than 25Mbps download/3Mbps upload) and "underserved" (less than 100Mbps download/20Mbps upload) locations.

Potential Impacts on Cell Tower Landlords in Rural Areas:

•Increased Demand for Wireless Infrastructure: The shift to "tech-neutrality" could increase the need for fixed wireless solutions, leading to greater demand for cell towers in rural areas

•Changing Market Dynamics: Consolidation in the wireless industry means landlords may increasingly interact with specialized tower management companies rather than carriers directly.

•Competition from Satellite Technologies: Increased BEAD funding for satellite providers could potentially reduce the need for terrestrial wireless infrastructure in some rural areas.

Key Recommendations for Cell Tower Landlords:

•Understand Your Existing Agreement Terms: Review transfer approval requirements, site modification rights, and lease term.

•Negotiate Favorable Terms for New or Extended Leases: Recognize your property's value, seek revenue sharing for co-location, limit lease terms, and include annual rent escalators.

•Protect Your Property Rights and Limit Liability: Limit carrier access, avoid exclusive use provisions, ensure adequate insurance and indemnification, and reserve the right to approve subletting.

•Consider Professional Representation: Engage specialized consultants or attorneys experienced in telecom infrastructure agreements before signing any documents.

About Cell Site Appraiser (CSA):

• A leading wireless consulting firm specializing in appraising, negotiating, and managing cell tower leases.

• Over 30 years of combined wireless leasing knowledge and experience.

• Works exclusively for cell site landlords to increase cell tower value and protect their property rights.

• Has secured over $10 million in cell tower value for landlords since 2017.

• Offers free information and insights to help landlords get the most out of their cell tower leases.

Contact Cell Site Appraiser (CSA):

• Website: www.cellsiteappraiser.com

• Phone: [phone]

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